The Sussex chicken is one of the oldest British breeds; it originated in Roman times, developed
from and eventually displacing the Dorking (Surrey) chickens in popularity, themselves displaced by Orpington (Kent) birds.
There are several colour varieties, including the Light, above, and White, Buff, Red and Speckled).
The Light Sussex has mainly white plumage with a black-streaked neck and black tail and wing tips.
The Sussex is a friendly and docile breed kept for dual purpose meat and egg laying (cream to light brown eggs).
Above right is a hybrid, possibly of Light and White.
Row above are hybrids. There is a bantam version about a quarter of the full size.
back to first Chicken page
Chicken breeds